Effect of Pelvic Floor Education and Physical Therapy Referral on Postpartum Patient Satisfaction [A46]. (May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wallace, Erika; Griffin, Alexis; Redhunt, Allyson M.; Heiden, Erica; Sokol, Nicole; Liff, Ingrid
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics and gynecology. Volume 139(2022)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 14S
• Page End: 14S
• Publication Date: 2022-05
• Subjects: Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000826520.97534.ed
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0029-7844

Abstract

Abstract : INTRODUCTION: Postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is associated with reduced quality of life; however, patient education regarding PFD is limited. The purpose of this study was to evaluate impact of PFD education and pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) referral on patient satisfaction with postpartum care. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial included 160 postpartum patients recruited during their delivery admission between November 2020 and June 2021. Patients were randomized to receive postpartum PFD education materials and PFPT referral (n=80) or to receive standard postpartum teaching (n=80). The Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8) was used to assess patient satisfaction at 12 weeks postpartum. RESULTS: In total, 131 (81.87%) participants completed the questionnaire. The groups were well matched in terms of demographics, comorbidities, and delivery type. In total, 60 of 131 (45.8%) reported PFD symptoms. Overall satisfaction did not differ between groups (27.43 vs. 28.31 out of 32, P =.28). Significantly more patients in the intervention group felt that they received enough PFD education and support (47.1% vs. 27.0%, P =.017). Of those who read the educational materials (48 of 68, 70.6%), 89.6% found them helpful, and 100% thought all patients should receive PFD education. Most common obstacles to attending PFPT included lack of interest, time commitment, and childcare. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that while providing PFD education and PFPT referral does not lead to increased patient satisfaction, patients do find these resources helpful. Postpartum PFD is prevalent; however, few patients attend PFPT despite referrals. We identify specific barriers to attending PFPT which are targets for future studies on patient satisfaction.